Pediatric palliative care in Malawi

Abstract

Malawi is a country in Africa with low per capita income and a population that is concentrated in rural areas. Malawi, like many other African countries, has been significantly affected by HIV/AIDS. Children are impacted by being orphaned and being infected themselves. Against a backdrop of poverty and a developing healthcare system, pediatric palliative care has started to emerge. A few programs exist, such as Umodzi a program located in Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. Although a registry does not currently exist, Umodzi has the capacity to serve about 500 children per year, many of whom have malignancies. The program is multi-disciplinary and often interfaces with other clinicians in the hospital. Challenges facing pediatric palliative care in Malawi include a lack of trained professionals, a lack of funds, and lack of access to morphine. Yet, these challenges have not prevented the Umodzi team, as well as many others, in promoting and advancing pediatric palliative care in Malawi.